An herbal remedy used to reduce stress and anxiety; also known as kava kava. The kava plant is a member of the pepper family and is found in the South Pacific. Kava may relax the body and induce sleep, although the precise way in which it works is not entirely understood or proven. Kava is popular in Germany and other European countries. Kava may impair a person’s ability to drive and can also cause hepatitis.
Piper methysticum, a plant native to the Pacific islands, whose dried roots are used medicinally to treat anxiety and stress. It can produce stomach upset and side effects similar to those produced by alcohol. It is also known as kava kava.